Under Pennsylvania criminal law, misdemeanor charges incur penalties based on the degree classification assigned by the type of infraction that occurred. The courts are required to impose the minimum penalty for the crime upon conviction. However, in some cases where a severe crime was committed, it is likely that judge may impose the maximum sentence. If you were arrested for a misdemeanor charge, you should hire a Montgomery County Criminal Lawyer promptly.
Penalties for Misdemeanor Crimes
First-degree misdemeanor charges incur a sentence of up to five years in prison with a maximum penalty of $10,000. This classification includes but are not limited to the sell or trafficking of infant children for profit, a fourth arrest for prostitution, and assault on a sports official.
Second-degree misdemeanor charges incur a prison sentence of two years with fines that do not exceed $5,000. These crimes include but are not limited to bigamy, false testimony, and impersonating a public servant.
Third-degree misdemeanor charges incur a prison sentence of one year and a fine of no more than $2,500. Infractions under this classification include disorderly conduct, open lewdness, and loitering during night-time hours without public areas.
DUI-related Misdemeanors
At any time that an individual who was convicted of a DUI and ordered to install an ignition interlocking device and fails to comply is guilty of a misdemeanor if he or she operates the vehicle. These individuals are required by law to operate vehicles with the device only. If they are caught operating the vehicle of another that was not covered in their case by the judge, they are still guilty of this infraction.
The minimum sentence for this infraction is ninety-days in county lockup.
The court system in Pennsylvania is required to impose a minimum sentence for offenders based on the crime in which they commit and the criminal penalty assigned to the violation. However, the jury has the right to impose the maximum penalty based on the nature of the crime.
If you are facing a criminal misdemeanor charge, you should contact a Montgomery County Criminal Lawyer to represent you immediately after your arrest. For details browse our website
